“AGT: Fantasy League” First Look: Heidi Puts Howie in a Headlock and Mel B Gets Simon in the Splash Zone (Exclusive)

Esther Kang

11 December 2023 at 1:00 pm·4-min read

The spinoff series, premiering on Jan. 1, will see 40 of the show's most beloved acts compete against each other on the judges' respective fantasy teams

Something epic is brewing on America's Got Talent: Fantasy League!

In PEOPLE's exclusive first look into the upcoming spinoff series, excitement is in the air as Fantasy League begins with not only a special twist but also with the return of Mel B as a judge.

"Everyone at home, stop whatever it is you're doing because AGT: Fantasy League is about to start," Heidi Klum says before pulling the Spice Girl alum into a big hug.

"And I'm back!" Mel B gushes.

"The craze here in America is fantasy sports. The ability to pick your dream team and win," Howie Mandel begins as Heidi finishes. "So why not do it on America's Got Talent?"

<p>Trae Patton/NBC</p> The judges pose with Terry crews on 'America's Got Talent: Fantasy League' — Trae Patton/NBC
The judges pose with Terry crews on 'America's Got Talent: Fantasy League'

"This is potentially the best spin off show we've done," Simon Cowell adds.

As scenes of thrilling upcoming acts fill the screen and shots of the judges getting a little too competitive play, host Terry Crews waves his hands in the air, saying, "I'm the commissioner, I'm going to make sure it's all fair."

Turns out the commissioner may play favorites! When a shot of Mel B spraying Simon with a water bottle plays, Terry looks into the camera and wags a naughty finger.

"I'm going to crush you Howie," Heidi promises before Mel B tells a contestant, "I'm actually really annoyed because you're on Simon's dream team and you just killed it!"

<p>Trae Patton/NBC via Getty; Chris Haston/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty</p> Kodi Lee and Darci Lynn on 'America's Got Talent' — Trae Patton/NBC via Getty; Chris Haston/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty
Kodi Lee and Darci Lynn on 'America's Got Talent'

The teaser then transitions to scenes of dance groups busting a move in coordinated outfits, people doing backflips and a contortionist firing a flaming arrow with her feet. Other notable acts featured in the teaser include ventriloquist Darci Lynne, country singer Drake Milligan, singer Kodi Lee, aerialist Aidan Bryant, country trio Chapel Hart, and magician Piff the Magic Dragon.

In a press release previously shared with PEOPLE, the judges will "each choose a roster of their favorite acts picking from winners, finalists, viral sensations and fan favorites from America’s Got Talent and Got Talent franchises around the world, all pre-selected by America in an initial vote."

For the first time in the show's history, the judges will compete alongside the contestants and will "mentor and guide" the acts throughout the competition in hopes of seeing an act from their team crowned the champion.

"The one thing we don't get to do on the main show is mentor the acts," Simon says in the first-look clip. "Hopefully you can help them do even better."

<p>Trae Patton/NBC</p> America's Got Talent: Fantasy League cast including (from left): Howie Mandel, Heidi Klum, Terry Crews, Mel B, and Simon Cowell — Trae Patton/NBC
America's Got Talent: Fantasy League cast including (from left): Howie Mandel, Heidi Klum, Terry Crews, Mel B, and Simon Cowell

In another turn of events, America's favorite aerialists, fire acts, puppeteers and other talented performers have a chance to be up for grabs with the use of the Golden Buzzer.

"If you see an act out there that you love, you can use your Golden Buzzer," Heidi explains and Simon adds, "And effectively put that person on my team."

Predictably, the buzzer becomes the subject of much fighting. The trailer flashes a scene of Heidi wrestling Howie to keep him from reaching the button. Successfully fighting off Heidi's advances, he taps the buzzer with the top of his head.

"Buckle up, people, because you are about to see a fierce rivalry!" Terry teases as Simon gushes, "It was a moment I will never ever forget."

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America's Got Talent: Fantasy League premieres Monday, Jan. 1 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and will stream the next day on Peacock.

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Read the original article on People.

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